Maths at Hartford 2026
OUR INTENT - What We Teach in Maths
At Hartford, we believe every child can succeed in mathematics. Our aim is to develop confident, curious and resilient mathematicians who enjoy exploring mathematical ideas and solving problems. Through a mastery approach, children develop a secure understanding of mathematical concepts, becoming fluent in all areas of mathematics, reasoning logically and applying their knowledge across a range of contexts. We encourage children to think creatively, make connections, use efficient strategies and persevere when faced with challenge. By the end of Year 6, children will leave Hartford as independent learners who recognise the importance of mathematics in everyday life and are equipped with the knowledge, skills and curiosity to continue their mathematical journey.
OUR IMPLEMENTATION - How We Teach Maths
At Hartford Primary, our mathematics curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure knowledge and skills build progressively from the Early Years to Year 6. We follow a mastery approach, underpinned by the National Curriculum and supported by White Rose Maths, enabling children to develop secure conceptual understanding before applying their learning to increasingly complex ideas.
In the Early Years, children establish strong mathematical foundations through the Mastering Number programme and practical experiences that develop counting, subitising, number composition and spatial reasoning. This learning is built upon in Key Stage 1, where pupils develop fluency in number and calculation alongside reasoning and problem-solving. In Key Stage 2, children deepen their understanding, make connections between mathematical concepts and apply their learning to more sophisticated problems, preparing them for secondary education.
Mathematics is taught through high-quality whole-class lessons, ensuring all children work towards the same ambitious learning goals. Lessons include retrieval practice through Flashback 4 activities, explicit teaching, guided practice and opportunities for independent application. Teachers use mathematical talk, CPA (Concrete, Pictorial, Abstract) representations and skilled questioning to deepen understanding, while regular reasoning and problem-solving activities encourage children to explain, justify and refine their thinking.
Teaching is adaptive, using scaffolding, carefully chosen representations, precise mathematical vocabulary and timely intervention to support all learners. Children who grasp concepts quickly are challenged through greater-depth reasoning and rich problem-solving opportunities rather than moving on prematurely. Mixed-attainment partner work and mathematical discussion further develop collaboration, confidence and communication.
Learning is enriched through meaningful cross-curricular links and real-life contexts, enabling children to recognise the relevance of mathematics beyond the classroom and apply their understanding in a wide range of situations.
OUR IMPACT - What Our Children Learn in Maths
The impact of our mathematics curriculum is that all children leave Hartford Primary as confident, curious and resilient mathematicians with a secure understanding of the mathematical concepts and skills needed for the next stage of their education. They retain and apply key knowledge over time, demonstrating fluency, reasoning and problem-solving skills across a range of contexts. Children can confidently use mathematical vocabulary, explain and justify their thinking, and select efficient strategies to solve increasingly complex problems.
Children demonstrate their understanding through mathematical discussion, independent work, collaborative learning and ongoing formative and summative assessment. High-quality work in books, pupil voice, lesson observations and progress monitoring show that children develop increasing independence, perseverance and pride in their learning.
By the end of Year 6, children will approach unfamiliar challenges with confidence and resilience. They will understand the value of mathematics in everyday life and leave Hartford well prepared for secondary education, equipped with the knowledge, skills and positive attitudes needed for future success.
The Curriculum Lead for Maths is: Mrs Eyre